Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=6/24/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-N / IRAQ / CONFERENCE

NUMBER=2-304686

BYLINE=JENNY BADNER

DATELINE=UNITED NATIONS

INTERNET=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: A conference is underway at U-N headquarters in New York to try to assess the challenges that lie ahead in reconstructing Iraq. Correspondent Jenny Badner reports from the United Nations.

TEXT: Some of the most powerful world players participated in the discussions on rebuilding Iraq. Representatives from the U-S-led-Coalition Authority, the World Bank, prospective donor nations and U-N agencies attended the conference. But the sponsor, the U-N Development Program, described the event as an informal meeting.

/// BEGIN OPT ///

U-N-D-P Chair Mark Malloch Brown opened the session, one day after the United Nations focused on Iraq's humanitarian needs.

/// MALLOCH BROWN ACT ///

Today we engage in the more difficult business of reconstruction, of coming together around a common commitment. I think of all of us in this room to helping the people of Iraq back on their feet, to Iraqi government and control over their own destiny as quickly as is feasible and is possible.

/// END ACT // END OPT ///

Mr. Malloch Brown says a formal conference on Iraq's reconstruction is necessary. In the meantime, the involved parties are discussing mechanisms for easing the transition from emergency measures to rebuilding Iraqi institutions. U-N Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq Ramiro Lopez Da Silva says a lack of security continues to impede U-N efforts. He calls for the establishment of an Iraqi interim administration to lead reconstruction and for greater community involvement.

/// DA SILVA ACT ///

Community involvement at the grassroots level, something that will be new for most of the Iraqis, is the key to assessing the needs on the ground and eventual sense of ownership to the process and to its outcome. The absence of a platform that permits the Iraqi people to express their expectations and aspirations is one of the main immediate constraints in the planning process.

/// END ACT ///

Mr. Da Silva points out that Iraq has in place a highly qualified work force of Iraqis capable of helping to rebuild their country. A delegation of 12-Iraqi technical experts attended the conference.

The groups' spokesperson, Akila Al Hashimi, offered opening remarks on behalf of the Coalition Authority. Speaking through a translator, she says the Iraqi team has provided needed data on crucial areas, such as agriculture, trade and communication.

/// AL HASHIMI ACT ///

In this connection, I would like to stress the need to restore the infrastructure of these sectors and bring them up to date. I would also like to stress the need to strengthen human skills. Iraq needs to get to know the world, to train its cadre. It is country that is rich in human and material resources, it can optimize investments in these resources, it can participate in the international community.

/// END ACT ///

The bulk of the meetings were closed to the press. Conference participants also heard directly from the U-S-led Coalition on the state of its plans and discussed future economic challenges. (SIGNED)

NEB/NYC/JB/BJS/RAE/FC